Category: Millennial’s

Potential homebuyers today are looking for a number of features in newly constructed homes, and energy efficiency is one of the most important. In fact, energy efficiency is so important that a Consumer Housing Trends Report conducted by Zillow shows that close to one in two buyers list energy efficiency as a desired home characteristic. What’s more, another study coming out of the U.K. found that homeowners in both the U.S. and the U.K. will pay more for a home that’s “smart,” which includes features like smart thermostats and solar panels, both of which save money through energy efficiency and help to protect the earth.

What Energy Efficient Features Are Most Important?

Some energy efficient house features are more important than others, with data showing that homebuyers are willing to shell out more cash for top-of-the-line energy-efficient technology and features such as:

Brand new energy-efficient appliances. A new home wouldn’t be complete without brand new appliances, and brand new appliances these days are designed to reduce the amount of energy necessary to operate them. Energy Star-certified appliances are a must in new homes. Every Hayden Home comes standard with Energy Star rated GE® appliances, including; a dishwasher, microwave and range.

Lighting and windows. Homebuyers are also looking for two other important, yet underrated, energy-efficient features: energy-efficient windows and LED lighting. LEDs can save hundreds of dollars, and last up to 20 years! We highly recommend you make the switch to LED’s if you’re able. High quality, energy-efficient windows are those that have a low-e rating and high U-factor. Each Hayden Home is built with Cascade® Energy Efficient white vinyl thermal pane windows.

Smart thermostats. Smart Thermostats seem to be all the rage these days. This is a thermostat that is not only programmable, but will also learn about homeowners’ habits and preferences, adjust the temperature on its own, and can be controlled remotely. This is something that a large percentage of homeowners are beginning to put in their homes and is an easy thing to add to a one’s home to improve a home’s energy efficiency.

Solar panels. Solar panels aren’t possible in all areas, but when they are, they’re popular. Solar panels offer homeowners huge energy savings, and significantly reduce costs related to things like heating and use of appliances and energy.

The Benefits of an Energy Efficient Home

Why is energy efficiency important? Smarter/Energy Efficient homes aren’t just cool; they can also save homeowners hundreds of dollars in costs each year. In addition to cost savings and increased value, living in an energy-efficient home can also be more comfortable. As a note, the U.K. study cited above found that in addition to energy-efficient features, “smart” features like USB connections, super-fast broadband, and smart security systems were also things that homeowners were willing to pay more for. Those most likely to pay for smarter and energy-efficient feature are young people, although people across all generations have started to realize the benefits. Learn more about the Hayden Homes commitment to quality and energy efficient features HERE.

Hayden Homes Has You Covered

Our homebuilders know that homebuyers are looking for quality features and energy efficiency when looking for homes for sale in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Whether you’re buying your first home or are a homebuyer who’s looking to upgrade, we have dream homes throughout the Northwest that offer energy efficient features. Contact us today to learn more about our new homes for sale in Hayden Homes communities throughout the northwest.

Millennials are changing how home designers and builders approach the design and construction process. Millennials are unique in their values and goals, and, as such, want homes that reflect that. This means that McMansions that require a lot of maintenance and aren’t energy efficient, or homes with a maze of small rooms instead of natural light and open spaces, are a thing of the past. Instead, Millennials are looking for something fresh, modern, and as one-of-a-kind as they are. Here’s a rundown of what we’ve found to be the top home designs and features that Millennials want in 2018.

Eco-Conscious Designs, Features, and Materials

One thing that most everyone can get behind is the desire to be more environmentally conscious. Things like energy-efficient windows, lighting and appliances are a must, and many Millennials are also in love with features like reclaimed wood, local stones, and other recycled materials that add a touch of nature. Millennials also rely heavily on modern technology so having electric outlets in convenient locations is a must.

Low-Maintenance and Great Home Warranties

Many millennials, prefer to spend their time on their passions and aren’t looking to take on a home project that may detract from that. There are too many things to experience and places to go to be tied down to a house that’s going to require work one weekend after the next. As such, newer homes are a great fit, as are today’s home warranties. At Hayden Homes, we offer one of the most comprehensive new home warranties in the northwest. This one-year home warranty program provides 12 months of coverage on our work, and ensures that if any problems arise, our customer care team will be there to help.

Plenty of Space

While Millennials may not care about having a huge dining room or basement, they do want plenty of open space and light, large master bedrooms, and additional areas that can be used as an office. Further, with a large portion of Millennials households being dual-income families, a two car garage is a must (both partners need a vehicle of their own to get to work in the morning). Luckily all Hayden Homes come standard with a two-car garage!

Another interesting trend amongst Millennials is the ability and desire to work from home. Which means that home offices need to be comfortable, spacious, and conducive to productivity. High ceilings, expansive windows, and simple yet clean features all contribute to this. Check out a list of our home plans that offer a Den standard or as an option HERE.

What Else Do You Want in Your New Home?

Home builders in the northwest are doing more to create homes that are specifically designed for Millennials. If you’re a Millennial who’s considering buying your first home in Washington, Oregon, or Idaho, what features does your dream home include?

At Hayden Homes, we have gorgeous homes available that are perfect for people of all generations, Millennials included. To see our new homes for sale today, contact us directly. We will work with you to help you find exactly what you’re looking for!